North Zone hunts begin September 8, and South Zone hunts begin September 22. South Zone counties include Baldwin, Barbour, Coffee, Covington, Dale, Escambia, Geneva, Henry, Houston and Mobile; all other counties are in the North Zone. The hunts are sponsored by the Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries (WFF) with support from many partners.

Although the hunts are free, pre-registration is necessary. The preferred method of registration is online at www.outdooralabama.com. Online registration begins August 22 for the September hunts and September 14 for the October hunts. Participants without Internet access may register by calling their WFF district office listed in the hunt schedule. District office personnel will complete the electronic registration form for you over the phone.

“The youth dove hunts are a perfect way to introduce kids to hunting,” said N. Gunter Guy, Jr., Conservation Commissioner. “Spending quality time with family members, while enjoying a safe hunting experience, is a great way to help ensure our hunting heritage.”

Alabama’s Youth Dove Hunting events are held in open fields and staffed by ADCNR personnel, which encourages a safe, secure environment for both parents and participants. The program also makes use of private lands and fields opened for use by community members, thus fostering good relationships between hunters and private landowners.

To participate in the hunts, youth hunters must be age 15 or younger and accompanied by an adult at least 25 years old (or a parent) who holds a valid state hunting license and a Harvest Information Program (HIP) stamp. Hunters should obtain their license and HIP stamp before the hunt since they will not be available on-site.

Before each hunt, a short welcome session with reminders on hunting safety will be conducted. All hunters are encouraged to wear eye protection and earplugs.

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through five divisions: Marine Police, Marine Resources, State Parks, State Lands, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. To learn more about ADCNR, visit www.outdooralabama.com.